Empire State Trail: Kingston–Green Island

Cruise the Hudson Valley on this Empire State Trail segment from Kingston up to Green Island, by Troy/Albany. It links riverside paths with signed on-road stretches, serving up big Hudson River views, historic main streets, and lots of easy food and coffee stops. Surface is mostly paved, so a road or gravel bike is perfect.

Riding north you’ll roll through river towns like Saugerties, Catskill, and Hudson, with a scenic bridge crossing and waterfront sections before reaching the Capital Region. The route finishes at Green Island, where the Mohawk meets the Hudson.

Expect mostly flat to gently rolling terrain. You’ll share the road in places and cross a few long bridges—use lights and bike lanes, and watch for traffic. Wayfinding is solid thanks to Empire State Trail signs.

One-way ride? Easy: Amtrak serves Rhinecliff (across from Kingston) and Albany–Rensselaer. Services are frequent along the way, making refills and snack breaks simple. Best ridden spring through fall; it can be breezy by the river.